The leading lady of five generations of her own family has a 100th birthday to remember for the rest of her life.

Connie Kerry (100) of Holbeach reached the landmark surrounded by much of her family, including five children, 15 grandchildren, 30 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

I can’t honestly tell you why she’s lived for so long except that she’s always worked hard

Shirley Wicks, daughter of 100-year-old Connie Kerry

Mrs Kerry, who was married to late husband Robert for more than 40 years, was taken out by four of her children to a meal at Baytree Garden Centre’s Hop-In Restaurant, Weston, on Friday.

Then on Saturday, centenarian Mrs Kerry was the centre of attention at a family buffet hosted by her granddaughter Helen Venters at her home in Saracen’s Head.

Helen said: “Grandma was born in Moulton Marsh but spent most of her married life in Saracen’s Head working on the land for three different businesses, Majors, Tinsley’s and Giddings.

“Then she went into nursing at Holbeach Hospital until she retired at the age of 60, only to start working at The Farm Cafe in Fleet where she stayed for 25 years until finishing there as an 85-year-old.

“Grandma has always enjoyed bingo, going out for meals and spending Christmas with all the family.”

Helen’s mother and Mrs Kerry’s daughter Shirley Wicks said: “Mum has always looked younger than her age and she doesn’t act her age either.

“She went to Baytree with four of her children because it’s her favourite restaurant and it’s where she feels comfortable.

“I can’t honestly tell you why she’s lived for so long except that she’s never drank, never smoked and always worked hard.

“Mum is so special to all of us and we all love her because she’s always been Mum to us and is always the same.”